Expert: William J Perkins - 6/19/2009

Question
QUESTION: might be considered a grandmother clock. My wife bought this clock at an auction.
It does not run. The weights were off and one chain was in the bottom of the case. one chain was caught  in the works.
I have little clock experience. I put the chains back in place then raised them up to the top. then placed the weights on them. The clock will not run, the weights remain at the top of their travel. The pendulum will not stay swinging. 77 643 is the number on the back left sid of the movement. Small print indicates "made for Emporer clocks.
any help would be great.

ANSWER: I believe your clock needs major service.  This is a clock built from a kit sold by Emperor clock company.  Servicing on these movements can be expensive, you would be much better off replacing the movement with a new one.  Not only is replacement far more cost effective but you end up with a better clock.  Regards WJP

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: the number 77 643 is wrong. I checked the clock movement back after coming home from work and discovered the correct number is 77 673.
what is a ball park price to replace the movement that might allow the least amount of revision of the clock. I would attempt to do it myself.

thank you

Answer
My guess would be around $100, if you do the work yourself.  I suggest you contact Emperor Clock Company to define the proper replacement movement.  I don't suggest you buy the movement from them, just get the nomenclature, then buy from another less expensive source.  Regards WJP